I water with tap water (non-softened, and make no effort to let purifying agents evaporate - my city uses a chlorine-ammonia hybrid). I have not had any issues with my plants. I know there are some types of orchids that are very sensitive and do require RO or distilled water, but I think MOST are fine with tap water. That being said, I do not know how my water compares with other areas.
There are minerals in hard water that the plants need as well, and in most cases it is recommended, if you use RO or distilled water, to add a small amount of tap water for these minerals.
Since you have softened tap water, perhaps you can get unsoftened water from a faucet outside ?
If the purifying agents are your concern - just allow the water to stand for a few to several hours. (also, allow water to come to room temperature if it's cold) If it's the hardness of the water, I guess, RO or distilled is the way to go.
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